The Religion of Economics

Economists confidently assert that their discipline is a value-free and scientific approach to the study of economic dimensions of modern societies. In contrast, many authors have argued that economics is the religion of Capitalism, which makes worship of wealth the goal of individuals and societies. Studying the history of economics provides guidance about settling the dispute. Since Christianity led to continuous warfare for over a century, it was rejected as the basis for organizing society. The secular social sciences emerged as a response to the rejection of Christianity. Instead of seeking for a heaven on the day of Judgment, they sought to achieve "progress" towards building a heaven on Earth, characterized by plentiful wealth for all - abundance, instead of scarcity. The motto "all is fair in love and war" characterizes modern economics. Pursuit of pleasure, power, and profit are ultimate goals, and no moral considerations can stand in their way. Obviously, this is a religion which is antithetical, not just to Christianity, but to any natural conception of morality.